Opening for ZZ Top at La Seine Musicale was Richie Kotzen, a musician whose résumé is considerably more famous than his name. Over the years he has passed through Poison and Mr. Big, shared stages with countless guitar heroes and, more recently, established himself as a key member of The Winery Dogs alongside Billy Sheehan and Mike Portnoy. Yet despite that impressive track record, he remains one of those artists who somehow manages to stay slightly below the mainstream radar.
Judging by last night's performance, that situation deserves correcting.
Leading a stripped-down power trio, Kotzen delivered a set that immediately distinguished itself from the sort of guitar clinic many might expect from a player of his reputation. The focus was firmly on songs rather than technique. The material drew heavily from blues, soul and classic hard rock, combining memorable hooks with enough instrumental firepower to satisfy even the most demanding musicians in attendance.
The guitar playing, unsurprisingly, was exceptional. Kotzen's style clearly owes a debt to Hendrix and the blues-rock tradition that followed, but what stands out most is his restraint. Even when the solos become technically demanding, they remain melodic and purposeful. There is little interest in empty displays of speed or virtuosity for its own sake. Every note serves the song.
The evening's biggest revelation, however, is his voice.
Warm, powerful and deeply soulful, Kotzen's vocals often steal the spotlight from his guitar. Plenty of musicians can sing competently while playing at a high level. Far fewer possess a voice strong enough to make listeners momentarily forget the instrumental fireworks happening around them. On several occasions, it is the singing rather than the guitar work that leaves the strongest impression.
Supported by an equally capable rhythm section, Kotzen proves himself to be far more than another technically gifted guitarist. He is a complete artist with a catalogue built around strong songwriting, memorable melodies and genuine musical personality.
As opening acts go, this was close to ideal: enough substance to command attention, enough quality to win over unfamiliar listeners and enough unanswered questions to inspire further exploration.
The next time Richie Kotzen comes through Paris, hopefully his name will be at the top of the bill. After a performance like this, he has certainly earned it.
